On Sunday, May 1, 2005, the three Saint Vincent de
Paul Conferences of Southbridge (from Notre Dame, sacred Heart, and
Saint Mary's Parishes gathered for a Mass of Commissioning followed
by a breakfast at the Knights of Columbus in Southbridge. The
following are highlights and photos from the event.
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| The day's events began at the 8
AM Mass at Saint Mary's. Roman & Juanita carry in the
banner to lead the procession. |
Fred & Cheryl, presidents of
Notre Dame and St Mary's conferences respectively call forward
members. |
The members stand at the front of
the congregation to make a commitment as Vincentians. |
The community invokes God's blessing on them
and their efforts. |
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| The hall is ready for over a
hundred and fifty guests. |
Arriving we are greeted by
Lorraine and Ed (who gladly take our money!). |
The kitchen crew is busy at work,
not so Bill who tried to miss the photo. |
Many capable hands made for a delicious meal! |
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| Some of the crowd that gathered
to be part of our celebration. |
The kitchen crew is ready to
serve our hungry patrons. |
The crowd lines up for there is
plenty to eat. looks like everyone is happy! |
Fr. Leo LeBlanc, pastor of Notre Dame church
with his parishioners. |
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| Those attending enjoyed the food
and then the speaking program. |
Another photo of the wonderful
people who joined us. |
Fred served as our moderator, introduced
speakers and kept the program moving well. |
Cheryl presents an award to Ron Cotton in
appreciation for his support. |
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| Fred of Notre Dame begins by
explaining our efforts at collaboration, in particular the
success of the clothing box next to Notre Dame. |
Paula shared some personal and
poignant stories about the difference the Society makes in
Southbridge. |
Frank Kartheiser of Worcester
Interfaith was our main speaker and inspired us on charity,
justice, and kinship. |
The head table, Paula, Frank and
Fred. |
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From left to right, Cheryl
Co-president of St Mary's; Fr. Peter, Pastor of St Mary's; Bob and
Frances Pike, diocesan leaders; Paula, Co-President of St
Mary's; Fred, President of Notre Dame; and Frank, our guest
speaker. |
